Wild Things 2013 Conference

Saturday, February 2, 2013
University of Illinois at Chicago

Rob Sulski, in the company of one of our youngest participants and one of our wildest, a red-tailed hawk! Photo by Jason Steger.

It was another wonderful Wild Things. Here are some comments the organizers have received…

“Another SUPER conference. Nothing can describe the passion and energy that flows throughout the entire day.”

“This is my favorite conference of all professional conferences I go to. It's so interesting!”

“The best Wild Things ever!!!”

“Nothing can compare to my 1st Wild Things experience (2009)—connecting with this community was a very special experience—now it's just like a big family reunion.”

“This is my second Wild Things conference. I will not miss the next. Great stuff and important conversation. Inspiring!”

“We should think of it in terms of a biennial plant—In the first year, energies go to establishing the strong foundation; second year, the spectacular blossoming! This and anticipation makes it all worth the wait.”

“Feels good to know so many people care nature may survive.”

“Thank you—you are a great group for getting it all organized so beautifully.”

Here are some some statistics:

1163 registrants

44 volunteer organizers

170 presenters

89 sessions plus 2 keynotes

31 exhibitors

10 sponsors

We will add information from speakers as we receive them—please check back. If you were a speaker, please remember to send materials that you would like posted to us. A copy of the program book is also included—please share it with local groups or individuals who may be interested in our conference or presenters.

Organized by Audubon Chicago Region in cooperation with the Habitat Project,
the Volunteer Stewardship Network, and Chicago Wilderness through funding from
the USDA Forest Service and US Fish & Wildlife Service.

The following sponsors have generously subsidized this conference in order to keep costs low for participants: The Field Museum, Chicago Park District, The Forest Preserve District of Cook County, Openlands